by Jolene Toves

Guam - Various representatives from local non-profit organizations and groups from off island attended the 4th annual Micronesia Non Profit Congress sponsored by Payu-Ta. According to board member Sarah Thomas Nededog the theme of this year's congress is justice for all. Payu-Ta is the umbrella organization of non profits in Guam that have initiated the gathering of non profits in Micronesia, Hawaii and American Samoa for the last three years during their annual congress.

"For us when we went through the number of issues that we commonly experience here in Micronesia domestic violence is on the top of the list, substance abuse issues, health disparities and the emerging issue of veterans issues," she said.

Also recognized during the congress were several of Payuta's outstanding partners in government and businesses in Guam, such as KUAM.

Meanwhile today's congress is part of Payuta's week long schedule of events. Others that are planned this week include the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Community Tour and regional conference with leaders in the US Associated Pacific Island Jurisdictions. The purpose of the tour is to strengthen the understanding and appreciation of the unique conditions that Pacific islanders in Micronesia face in their quest for good health, quality health care, affordable housing, and employment and training opportunities amongst other issues.